Environmental education officer : Entry requirements

A relevant degree in a biological or environmental science discipline is often required. The following degree subjects in particular may increase your chances:

• agriculture;
• biology;
• botany/plant science;
• conservation biology;
• ecology;
• environmental management;
• forestry;
• geography;
• zoology.

Entry with a relevant HND/foundation degree such as countryside management or one of the subjects above is possible, particularly for candidates with relevant work experience.

It would be unusual to enter this career without any relevant qualifications. You would need substantial work experience to make up for this.

A postgraduate qualification in education is desirable for many posts but only essential for those that focus exclusively on schools. A relevant first degree is usually more important. A postgraduate degree in an environmental field may also be an advantage.

Relevant work experience is key to finding a paid position. This should, ideally, include both environmental or conservation work and educational or community-based experience, such as youth work or summer camps.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• commitment to and enthusiasm for environmental conservation and sustainable development;
• the ability to communicate effectively in written materials as well as presentations, workshops and guided walks;
• interpersonal skills and an ability to relate to people of all ages;
• excellent organisational and time management skills;
• the ability to work well in a team but also on your own initiative;
• good IT skills.

For many posts, a full driving licence is necessary. A first aid certificate and a good knowledge of health and safety may also be useful.

Employers in this field will want you to show real commitment and passion for environmental issues. Gaining relevant experience is one of the best ways of demonstrating this on your CV. Finding paid work experience is often difficult. However, voluntary work is available both part time all year round and full time over the summer through organisations such as the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers (BTCV) , the National Trust , the National Trust for Scotland  and The Wildlife Trusts . You may also join these organisations as a student member and keep up to date with current environmental issues.

You might not be able to get involved in educational activities from the start. However, any relevant experience gives you the opportunity to speak to professionals in environmental education, build up a network of contacts that might be useful in your job search, and give you invaluable practical skills.

Experience of working with children and particularly in a school environment is also useful, as is a knowledge of the education system and the curriculum (see National Curriculum Online  and Learning and Teaching Scotland ). If a role involves working with children or vulnerable people, a full Criminal Records Bureau (CRB)  or Disclosure Scotland  check is usually required before you may start work.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.